Garage 66 has been handed a suspension by NASCAR following a safety violation during the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway
The Incident
During Sunday’s Coca-Cola 600, car No. 66 driven by Josh Bilicki encountered a serious issue early in the race. After a routine pit stop, the vehicle’s right-rear wheel came off under caution—a direct violation of NASCAR’s strict safety protocols.
Who Was Penalized?
Following the incident, NASCAR took disciplinary action against two Garage 66 pit crew members:
Brehanna Daniels – Rear Tire Changer
Ethan Hindman – Jackman
Both have been suspended from the next two NASCAR Cup Series races, with the penalty expiring after the race at Michigan International Speedway on June 8.
Race Schedule Impact
Despite the suspension, Garage 66 plans to compete in the upcoming races at Nashville, Chicago, and Indianapolis.
Chad Fincham will drive the car in Nashville.
Josh Bilicki is set to return for both the Chicago Street Race and Indianapolis.
Since the team is not scheduled to race in Michigan, the suspended crew members will effectively miss only the Nashville race, which was the only event they were assigned to during the suspension period.
Official Statement from NASCAR
In an official release, NASCAR stated:
“The No. 66 Garage 66 Ford, driven by Josh Bilicki, lost its right-rear wheel in Turn 4 under caution on Lap 49 of the Coca-Cola 600.
Per Section 10.5.2.6.D of the NASCAR Rule Book, concerning safety violations, both the rear tire changer and jackman have been suspended from the next two Cup Series events.”What’s Next for Garage 66?
Team owner Carl Long has shared that the team is looking to expand its participation further. They’re currently working on securing an engine lease to compete in superspeedway events such as Daytona, Talladega, and Atlanta using a restrictor-plate motor setup
Conclusion
This incident underlines NASCAR’s no-compromise policy on safety. While the penalty may briefly impact Garage 66, the team remains focused on future races and is committed to improving performance and professionalism on and off the track
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